1 post tagged “review”
A review, by the venerable music enthusiast, Crush:
Death Cab for Cutie's (DCFC) new album, Narrow Stairs, is due for release next week. Even though this isn't technically indie music anymore (the band signed a major contract a few years ago), DCFC has its roots firmly planted in the indie arena.
I wasn't a fan of this band until recently. They've drifted on and off of my personal music radar screen over the past few years, as they've grown in popularity, but always escaped my interest. Yet, I can't get enough of their latest single, I Will Possess Your Heart. This is a song you'll either love or hate, in part due to the 4 minute plus instrumental "intro". In my opinion, the intro is what makes this song so unique and likeable. There are haunting keyboard chords pounding feverishly, between a stiff and memorable bass line. It builds to an emotive crescendo once the lyrics do finally kick in. There aren't many lyrics to begin with. What few words are included, seem simple and sophomoric on paper. Combine them, though, with the musical indulgence of each of the band's musicians, and you have a modern day masterpiece, albeit not one made for radio play or mass appeal. (Was indie music ever destined or desired for radio waves?)
There's also plenty of echo and reverb that offset the melodic tones, giving it an edginess that almost feels misplaced in this song....almost. They clash with the enunciating velvet voice of Ben Gibbard, the band's singer and keyboardist, but somehow it all works. In a few words, I'd characterize it as hardcore emo-indie. And, its good.
The video aint too bad either. You can feel the song's "author" stalking the subject femme fatale. (Does anyone recognize the actress? She looks familiar, but I can't place her.) The video goes a long way to justify the 4 minute intro. You can feel her angst and confusion; his frustration and hope. He's in her head, but he wants more. He wants to possess her heart, her being. She feels him, as she journeys in far reaching corners of the world. She is depicted in day and night; cold climes and warm; north, south, east and west....traveling the world alone, and yet she's not necessarily lonely. He's with her in spirit, but is she happy that he accompanies her in this way or is she attempting to run from his grip? Is she sullen or determined? Is she content in her solitude? Depressed or merely contemplative? That's up to your interpretation, and may be dictated by the station of your own personal love life, I'd guess.
The first time I heard this, I wasn't sure if I liked it or not. It took a second and third listen to know I did. You don't have to be an indie music fan to appreciate this, but even if you are, you won't necessarily like it! Its unique and eclectic and catchy and maybe even a little annoying, depending on your mood. It is emotive, if nothing else. I like it. Hope you do as well. My guess is that the musicians in my hood will enjoy it. The music enthusiasts that might not have ever "played" music, may not... Meh. Just a hunch. Its a good 8 minute distraction from your workday or a great lead-in to your music-filled weekend...Enjoy!
the album is to be officially released on Tuesday, May 13
